Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman of Homeland Security, sent a letter today to President Trump urging the approval of Governor Abbott's request for an expedited major disaster declaration on behalf of the Texas counties impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

"This Category 3 storm is anticipated to cause untold damages and hardships to countless Texans, including many of my constituents," McCaul writes in the letter.

"Forecasts show the likelihood of heavy and sustained rainfall at levels that will surely cause flooding, in addition to storm surges and high winds. As vast as the state is, simply put, the resources of these people, the jurisdictions, the state, and voluntary organizations will not be adequate on their own. The Governor has determined that this event is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and the affected local governments, and has requested Individual Assistance and debris removal and emergency protective measures..." McCaul continues to say.